When someone is injured due to another person’s actions, they may consider filing a claim to seek compensation. But is a personal injury claim considered a civil or criminal matter? A lawyer, like a personal injury lawyer, knows that the distinction lies in the purpose and procedures of each type of case.
What Defines A Civil Case
When you are filing a personal injury claim, you may have many questions about civil vs. criminal law. A personal injury claim falls under civil law. Civil cases typically involve disputes between individuals, businesses, or organizations over legal responsibilities and obligations. In a personal injury case, the goal is to seek compensation for damages caused by another party’s negligence or intentional actions.
Examples of damages in a personal injury case include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Unlike criminal cases, civil cases do not involve the government prosecuting an offender or seeking penalties like jail time. Instead, the injured party (plaintiff) pursues compensation from the responsible party (defendant).
How Criminal Cases Differ
Criminal cases involve offenses against the state or society, such as theft, assault, or driving under the influence. These cases are prosecuted by the government, and the penalties may include fines, imprisonment, or community service.
In some situations, the same act can lead to both criminal and civil cases. For example, a drunk driver who causes an accident may face criminal charges for driving under the influence while also being sued in civil court for damages caused by the crash.
The Role Of Fault And Liability
In a civil personal injury case, the focus is on proving liability. This requires demonstrating that the defendant’s actions—or failure to act—caused harm to the plaintiff. Evidence such as medical records, witness statements, and accident reports are often used to establish fault.
Criminal cases, on the other hand, focus on proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The burden of proof is higher in criminal court because the consequences, such as incarceration, are more severe.
Why Personal Injury Cases Are Civil Matters
Personal injury claims aim to make the injured party whole again by compensating for the losses they’ve suffered. This focus on compensation rather than punishment is what defines personal injury cases as civil matters.
While criminal proceedings may bring justice to a perpetrator, they do not typically address the financial and emotional toll on the victim. Civil claims fill this gap by providing a means for injured parties to recover their losses.
Take The Next Steps With The Right Team
Attorneys like those at Wandres Law, PC can attest that personal injury cases are fundamentally civil matters, emphasizing the importance of proving liability to recover damages. They help clients understand their legal options and focus on pursuing compensation that aligns with the harm they’ve experienced. If you or someone you know has been injured due to another’s negligence, filing a personal injury claim allows you to seek compensation through the civil court system. This process provides a way to address the financial and emotional challenges caused by the injury. If you’re considering a personal injury claim, reach out to a qualified attorney for guidance. They can help evaluate your case and take the necessary steps to protect your rights.